COUNCIL TAXES ON CONGESTION PLANS

Plans proposed under the government's transport white paper will mean funds can be raised by councils from congesti...

Plans proposed under the government's transport white paper will mean funds can be raised by councils from congestion charges on parking dues from company car users and from motorists entering peak holiday areas.

The Guardian (p3) reports that the scheme, which could raise almost£3bn over the next ten years, has been approved in principle provided that the money is spent on 'sensible' schemes.

The most likely ideas are more frequent bus and rail services, park and ride schemes, bus nad cycle lanes, and the limiting of car access to town and city centres. No scheme will be refused if local authorities can demonstrate that it is boosting public transport.

Any council wishing to participate will have to apply to the department of the environment, transport and the regions for a licence and for its scheme to be vetted.

But officials from the treasury are still said to be concerned that the money could be wasted on 'crackpot ideas' and one source said: 'We will not allow council officials to indulge their flights of fancy by buiding pedestrian lanes for ducks.'

Today, London introduced the world’s first Ultra Low Emission Zone – but it’s not the only local authority taking strides to combat rising levels of air pollution. LGC research has established 14 councils spanning four urban areas outside of the capital have drawn up plans to begin charging the most polluting vehicles to drive in their cities – but many have watered down their proposals in the face of divided public opinion.

Northamptonshire CC will be able to raise council tax without a referendum by 2% more than other councils as it strives to improve its governance and services, the housing and communities secretary has announced.

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